Dilation system

ABSTRACT

A dilation system for accessing a surgical target site to perform surgical procedures. In one version, the dilation system includes a wedge assembly and an actuating mechanism. The wedge assembly comprises includes a base and a plurality of blades extending from the base so that the distal end of the blades extend away from the base. The mechanism is operably associated with the blades so as to cause the distal end of the blades to move from a closed condition to an expanded condition.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/050,820, filed Jul. 31, 2018 which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/046,685, filed Nov. 1, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,039,540; which is a continuation-in-part of PCT/US2012/063061, filed Nov. 1, 2012; which claims benefit to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/554,397, filed Nov. 1, 2011; the entire contents of each being hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENTLY DISCLOSED INVENTIVE CONCEPTS 1. Field of the Presently Disclosed Inventive Concepts

The inventive concepts disclosed and claimed herein relate to systems and methods for performing surgical procedures and, more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to systems and methods for accessing a surgical target site to perform surgical procedures.

2. Brief Description of Related Art

The present state of the art, when referencing a lateral surgical access approach, typically consists of using the following surgical instruments: neuromonitoring probe, dilators, and a retractor. Once an operative level is identified and an incision is created, dilators are used to create a surgical access site which is often followed by the use of a retractor or other specialized tools to create a surgical access corridor.

During a lateral approach to a patient's spine, a psoas muscle, which is located on either side of the spine, is separated in order to access the spine and, in particular, an intervertebral disc space or one or more vertebral bodies within a patient's spinal column. It is desirable to avoid neural elements or nerves of the lumbar plexus that lie within the psoas muscle during such procedures. The anterior third of the psoas muscle is typically considered a safe zone for muscle separation.

The neural elements or nerves of the psoas muscle may be mapped using a stimulating probe. In this manner, the most posterior neural or nerve free area of the psoas muscle may be located and identified. The stimulating probe may then be inserted through the psoas muscle via the most posterior neural or nerve free tissue area or through nearly any other region that is free of neural elements or nerves and toward the spine or into the intervertebral disc space in order to initiate safe tissue separation of the psoas muscle. Dilators are next placed over the probe to create and enlarge a surgical access site. Following the use of dilators, a retractor or other specialized tools are used to further enlarge the surgical access corridor.

Concentric dilators separate the muscle radially, and as such, dilate tissue on all both sides of the stimulating probe in a uniform fashion. This in turn may impinge on neural elements or nerves located outside of the safe zone. Directional dilators have been suggested to overcome the problems associated with concentric dilators. While directional dilation systems are effective have avoiding known neural elements, they are limited in their ability to continuously monitor nerve proximity and to create a surgical access site of a desired shape while at the same time reducing the amount of tissue damage.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a partially exploded, perspective view of a dilation system constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein having three dilators and three electrode assemblies.

FIG. 2 is an elevational view of the dilation system of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is an elevational view of the dilation system of FIG. 2 shown rotated 90 degrees.

FIG. 4A is a top plan view of the dilation system.

FIG. 4B is a bottom plan view of the dilation system.

FIG. 4C is an elevational view of a first dilator.

FIG. 4D is a top plan view of the first dilator.

FIG. 4E is a top plan view of another embodiment of a first dilator.

FIG. 5A is an elevational view of the dilators shown without the electrode assemblies and shown assembled in a concentric arrangement.

FIG. 5B is a bottom plan view of the dilators shown without the electrode assemblies and shown assembled in a concentric arrangement.

FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view of the dilators without the electrode assemblies and shown arranged in an eccentric arrangement.

FIG. 7 is an elevational view of another embodiment of a dilation system constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein having three dilators.

FIG. 8 is a bottom plan view of the dilation system of FIG. 7 .

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the dilation system of FIG. 7 shown in a concentric arrangement.

FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the dilation system of FIG. 7 shown in an eccentric arrangement.

FIG. 11A is an elevational view of an exemplary first dilator of the dilation system of FIG. 7 .

FIG. 11B is a top plan view of the first dilator.

FIG. 12A is an elevational view of an exemplary second dilator of the dilation system of FIG. 7 .

FIG. 12B is a top plan view of the second dilator.

FIG. 13A is an elevational view of an exemplary third dilator of the dilation system of FIG. 7 .

FIG. 13B is an elevational view of the third dilator of FIG. 13A shown rotated 90 degrees.

FIG. 13C is a top plan view of the third dilator.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a dilation system constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of an exemplary first dilator shown being inserted over a stimulating probe.

FIG. 15B is a perspective view of an exemplary second dilator being inserted over the first dilator.

FIG. 15C is a perspective view of an exemplary third dilator being inserted over the first dilator.

FIG. 16A is a front elevational view of the first dilator of the dilation system of FIG. 14 .

FIG. 16B is a side elevatonal view of the first dilator.

FIG. 16C is a rear elevational view of the first dilator.

FIG. 16D is a sectional view taken along line 16D-16D of FIG. 16C.

FIG. 17 is a sectional view taken along line 17-17 of FIG. FIG. 16B.

FIG. 18 is top end view of the first dilator.

FIG. 19 is a front elevational view of an exemplary second dilator of the dilation system of FIG. 14 .

FIG. 20A is a sectional view taken along line 20A-20A of FIG. 19 .

FIG. 20B is a sectional view taken along line 20B-20B of FIG. 19 .

FIG. 21 is a front elevational view of an exemplary third dilator of the dilation system of FIG. 14 .

FIG. 22A is a sectional view taken along line 22A-22A of FIG. 21 .

FIG. 22B is a sectional view taken along line 22B-22B of FIG. 21 .

FIG. 23A is a perspective view of an exemplary first dilator of another embodiment of a dilation system.

FIG. 23B is a perspective view illustration an exemplary second dilator connected to the first dilator.

FIG. 23C is a sectional view of the first and second dilator shown in combination with a retractor assembly.

FIG. 24A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a dilation system constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein shown in a closed condition.

FIG. 24B is a perspective view of the dilation system of FIG. 24A shown in an expanded condition.

FIG. 25 is a sectional view taken along line 25-25 of FIG. 24B.

FIG. 26 is an exploded, perspective view of a link assembly.

FIG. 27A is an exploded, perspective view of a drive rod shown detached from the link assembly.

FIG. 27B is a perspective view of the drive shaft shown attached to the link assembly.

FIG. 28A is a perspective view of the dilation system of FIG. 14 illustrated in the closed condition provided with an expandable sheath.

FIG. 28B is a perspective view of the dilation system of FIG. 28A shown in the expanded condition.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a dilation system constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein shown in a closed condition.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the dilation system of FIG. 28 shown in an expanded condition.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the dilation system of FIG. 28 shown in the expanded condition with a secondary expander shown inserted therein.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an expander.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the secondary expander.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a dilation system constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the dilation system of FIG. 34 shown provided with an expandable sheath.

FIG. 36A is an elevational view of another embodiment of a dilation system constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

FIG. 36B is a top end view of the dilation system of FIG. 36A.

FIG. 37A is an elevational view of the dilation system of FIG. 36A shown with a first expansion member.

FIG. 37B is a top end view of the dilation system of FIG. 37A.

FIG. 38A is an elevational view of the dilation system of FIG. 37A shown with a second expansion member.

FIG. 38B is a top end view of the dilation system of FIG. 38A.

FIG. 39 is an exploded, perspective view of another embodiment of a dilation system constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

FIG. 40A is perspective view of a drive member.

FIG. 40B is a distal end view of the drive member of FIG. 40A.

FIG. 41A is a perspective view of the dilator system of FIG. 39 shown in a closed condition with a stimulating probed positioned therein.

FIG. 41B is a perspective view of the dilator system of FIG. 39 shown in a closed condition with a second stimulating probed positioned therein.

FIG. 41C is a perspective view of the dilator system of FIG. 39 shown in a partially expanded condition.

FIG. 41D is a perspective view of the dilator system of FIG. 39 shown in an expanded condition.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concepts in detail, it is to be understood that the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concepts is not limited in its application to the details of construction, experiments, exemplary data, and/or the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concepts are capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Certain exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. In general, such embodiments relate to dilation systems for accessing a patient's spinal column.

As generally understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, the dilation systems will be described in connection with accessing the spine to perform a surgical procedure, but the dilation systems will find use not only in orthopedic surgery, but in other surgical procedures in which a surgeon wishes to gain access to an internal cavity by cutting the skin and going through the body wall in order to keep the incision spread apart so that surgical instruments can be inserted. For example, the dilation systems may be used for anteriorly or posteriorly accessing the spine, for accessing the thoracic or cervical region of the spine, or for accessing nearly any other part of the body.

Referring to FIGS. 1-6 , a dilation system 10 is illustrated. The dilation system 10 includes a plurality of sequential dilators 12, 14, and 16, and a plurality of electrode assemblies 18 and 20. The sequential dilation system 10 may include more or less dilators such as, for example, one, two four, etc. The dilation system 10 is adapted to be used in combination with a monitoring K-wire or stimulating probe (not shown) known for transmitting an electrical pulse.

Referring to FIGS. 4C-4E, 5A, and 5B, the first dilator 12 is a tubular member having an outer surface 32, a proximal end 33, a distal end 34 and a bore 35 extending from the proximal end 33 to the distal end 34. The first dilator is illustrated as having a substantially egg shaped transverse cross section whereby the first dilator 12 is provided with a lobe 36. The bore 35 is offset from the longitudinal axis of the first dilator 12 away from lobe 36. The bore 35 is sized to receive a stimulating probe (not shown). Alternatively, the first dilator 12 may be provided with a channel 38 formed near the tip of the lobe and extending the length of the first dilator 12 (FIG. 6 ), or the first dilator 12 may have an open side 37 opposite the lobe 36 (FIG. 4E).

In use, the first bore 35 removably receives the stimulating probe in an assembled configuration (e.g., when the stimulating probe is slidably received within the first bore 35 of the first directional dilator 12) so that a surgeon can stimulate the first dilator 12. The axis of the stimulating probe may be coaxial with the axis of the bore 35 of the first dilator 12 in the assembled configuration.

With reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the second dilator 14 is characterized as being an open sided tubular structure that has an outer surface 42, a proximal end 43, a distal end 44, and a bore 45 extending from the proximal end 43 to the distal end 44. The second dilator 14 is illustrated as having a substantially oval shaped transverse cross section. The bore 45 is offset from the longitudinal axis of the second dilator 14 toward the open side of the second dilator 14. The bore 45 is shaped to slidingly receive the first dilator 12 so that the tip of the lobe 36 of the first dilator 12 is received in the open side of second dilator 14 and is substantially flush with the outer surface of the second dilator 14. The second dilator 14 further includes a channel 46 formed at or near the outer surface 42 of the closed side of second dilator 14 extending the length of the second dilator 14 (FIG. 6 ) for receiving an electrode in a manner to be described below. Because the bore of the second dilator 14 is offset toward the lobe 36 of the first dilator, inserting the second dilator 14 over the first dilator 12 causes the second dilator 14 to dilate the opening formed in the patient in a direction opposite the lobe 36 of the first dilator 12.

The third dilator 16 is characterized as being an open sided tubular structure that has an outer surface 52, a proximal end 53, a distal end 54 and a bore 55 extending from the proximal end 53 to the distal end 54. The third dilator 16 is illustrated as having a substantially circularly shaped transverse cross section. The bore 54 is offset from the longitudinal axis of the third 16 dilator toward the open side of the third dilator 16. The bore 55 is shaped to slidingly receive the second dilator 12. As such, in the exemplary embodiment, the bore 55 is oval shaped. The third dilator 16 further includes a plurality of channels 56 formed at or near outer surface of the third dilator 14 extending the length of the second dilator 14 (FIG. 6 ) for receiving electrodes in a manner to be described below.

Because the bore 54 is oval shaped, the third dilator 16 may be inserted over the second dilator 14 in one of two ways. First, as illustrated in FIG. 5B, the third dilator 16 may be inserted over the second dilator 14 with the open side of the third dilator 16 positioned opposite the open side of the second dilator 14. This causes the opening formed in the patient by insertion of the third dilator 16 to be concentrically positioned about the bore 35 of the first dilator 12. Second, as illustrated in FIG. 6 , the third dilator 16 may be inserted over the second dilator 14 with the open side of the third dilator 16 positioned in alignment with the opposite the open side of the second dilator 14. This causes the opening formed in the patient by insertion of the third dilator 16 to be eccentrically positioned about the bore 35 of the first dilator 12 or in a direction away from the bore 35 of the first dilator 12.

Referring again to FIGS. 1-3 , the electrode assembly 18 includes an electrode 60 and an electrode holder 62. The electrode 60 can be any electrode now or hereafter known for transmitting an electrical pulse. The electrode 60 includes an electrode tip 64 (FIG. 4B). The electrode holder 62 is formed of an electrically insulating material and is substantially similar in shape to the second dilator 14 so as to be positionable about a portion of the first dilator 12. The electrode 60 extends through the electrode holder 62 so that a proximal end of the electrode 62 extends from an upper end of the electrode holder 62.

In use, the electrode holder 62 may function as a handle to facilitate insertion of the electrode 60 into the channel 46 of the second dilator 14 until the electrode holder 62 contacts the proximal end of the second dilator 14 and the electrode tip 64 is position near the distal end 44 of the second dilator 14 (FIG. 4B).

The electrode assembly 18 a includes three electrodes 70 and an electrode holder 72. The electrodes 70 can be any electrode now or hereafter known for transmitting an electrical pulse. The electrodes 70 include an electrode tip 74. The electrode holder 72 is substantially similar in shape to the third dilator 14 so as to be positionable about a portion of the second dilator 14. The electrodes extend through the electrode holder 72 so that a proximal end of the electrodes 70 extends from an upper end of the electrode holder 72.

In use, the electrode holder 72 may function as a handle to facilitate insertion of the electrodes into the channels 56 of the third dilator 16 until the electrode holder 72 contacts the proximal end of the third dilator 16 and the electrode tips 74 are position near the distal end of the third dilator 16 (FIGS. 2, 3, and 4B).

The dilation system 10 is shown to use four electrodes to determine nerve location during the preparation of a surgical corridor. Four electrodes at final assembly allow nerves to be located 360° around the surgical site without the additional step of rotating the dilators. The assembly procedure would be carried out one dilator at a time with the first dilator 12 placed over a stimulating probe. Once the first dilator 12 is in place, the probe may be removed and replaced with a K-wire, if desired. The second dilator 14 with a single disposable electrode attached is placed over both the first dilator 12 and k-wire. The single electrode can be utilized to determine nerve proximity and the assembly can be rotated as one unit. The third dilator 16 is placed over all the elements with three additional disposable electrodes attached. Once fully assembled, the third and second dilators place the four electrodes 90° apart allowing for nerve detection in four equally separated directions spanning 360°.

Additionally, the eccentric dilators are shaped in an oblong fashion to prevent rotation between elements and allow for a unique assembly orientation. The dilator assembly can be rotated at each step without causing damage to surrounding tissue as a result of rotating interfaces and eliminates the possibility of single electrode misplacement relative to the triple electrodes. This feature ensures that the four electrodes are placed 90° apart at final assembly and unwanted rotation between dilators does not occur during use.

The shape of the dilators can be made so the dilators are assembled in an alternating pattern, which allows for the k-wire channel to be located concentric to the final assembly. As well, the dilators can be assembled in an eccentric pattern, allowing for dilation to occur in tissue in a single direction. This can be advantageous to perform dilation in a direction away from nerve tissue.

Rotation between dilators can be eliminated via a keyhole slot, locking method or other geometry. Greater or fewer dilatation steps can be used. Electrodes can be integrated into the dilators for greater than one time use. Electrodes can be placed in an alternative pattern. Electrodes can be assembled in different combinations (e.g., two sets of two electrodes, four single electrodes, only two electrodes etc). Greater or fewer electrodes can be used. Dilator assembly could have a non-circular basis.

Referring now to FIGS. 7-13 , another embodiment of a dilation system 10 a is illustrated. The dilation system 10 a includes a plurality of sequential dilators 12 a, 14 a, and 16 a. The sequential dilation system 10 a may include more or less dilators such as, for example, one, two four, etc. The dilation system 10 a is adapted to be used in combination with a monitoring K-wire or stimulating probe (not shown) known for transmitting an electrical pulse.

As best shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the first dilator 12 a is characterized as being an open sided tubular structure having an outer surface 32 a, a proximal end 33 a, a distal end 34 a, and a bore 35 a extending from the proximal end 33 a to the distal end 34 a. The first dilator 12 a is illustrated as being substantially oval shaped. The bore 35 a is offset from the longitudinal axis of the first dilator 12 a. The bore 35 a is sized to receive a K-wire (not shown). The first dilator 12 a is provided with an electrode 38 at the distal end 34 a generally opposite the bore 35 a. The first dilator 12 a further has a corresponding connector point 39 (FIG. 11A) for connecting the electrode to neural monitoring equipment.

As best shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the second dilator 14 a is characterized as being an open sided tubular structure having an outer surface 42 a, a proximal end 43 a, a distal end 44 a, and a bore 45 a extending from the proximal end 43 a to the distal end 44 a. The second dilator 14 a is illustrated as having a substantially oval shaped transverse cross section. The bore 45 a is offset from the longitudinal axis of the second dilator 14 a toward the open side of the second dilator 14 a. The bore 45 a is shaped to slidingly receive the first dilator 12 a so that one side of the first dilator 12 a is received in the open side of second dilator 14 a and is substantially flush with the outer surface of the second dilator 14 a. Alternatively, the second dilator 14 a can be positioned over the first dilator 12 a with the open sides aligned. The second dilator 14 a is provided with an electrode 48 at the distal end generally opposite the bore 45 a. The second dilator 14 a further has a corresponding connector point 49 for connecting the electrode to neural monitoring equipment.

Referring now to FIGS. 13A and 13B, the third dilator 16 a is characterized as being an open sided tubular structure that has an outer surface 52 a, a proximal end 53 a, a distal end 54 a, and a bore 55 a extending from the proximal end 53 a to the distal end 54 a. The third dilator 16 a is illustrated as having a substantially circularly shaped transverse cross section. The bore 55 a is offset from the longitudinal axis of the third dilator 16 a toward the open side of the third dilator 16 a. The bore 55 a is shaped to slidingly receive the second dilator 12 a. As such, the bore is oval shaped. Because the bore is oval shaped, the third dilator 16 a may be inserted over the second dilator 14 a in one of two ways. First, as illustrated in FIG. 9 , the third dilator 16 a may be inserted over the second dilator 14 a with the open side of the third dilator 16 a positioned opposite the open side of the second dilator 14 a. This causes the opening formed in the patient by insertion of the third dilator 16 a to be concentrically positioned about the bore of the first dilator 12 a. Second, as illustrated in FIG. 10 , the third dilator 16 a may be inserted over the second dilator 14 a with the open side of the third dilator 16 a positioned in alignment with the opposite the open side of the second dilator 14 a. This causes the opening formed in the patient by insertion of the third dilator 16 a to be eccentrically positioned about the bore of the first dilator 12 a or in a direction away from the bore of the first dilator 12 a. The third dilator 16 a is provided with an electrode 58 at the distal end generally opposite the bore 55 a. The third dilator 16 a further has a corresponding connector point 59 for connecting the electrode to neural monitoring equipment.

The electrodes of the first, second, and third dilators 12 a, 14 a, and 16 a are provided for the purpose of determining the location of nerves or neural structures relative to the each of the dilators 12 a, 14 a, and 16 a as they are advanced over the K-wire towards or positioned at or near the surgical target site. The dilators 12 a, 14 a, and 16 a may be equipped with the electrodes via any number of suitable methods, including but not limited to providing electrically conductive elements within the walls of the dilators such as by manufacturing the dilators from plastic or similar material capable of injection molding or manufacturing the dilators from aluminum (or similar metallic substance) and providing outer insulation layer with exposed regions (such as by anodizing the exterior of the aluminium dilator).

As best shown in FIGS. 3 and 7 , the first dilators 12 and 12 a have a length greater than the length of the second dilator 14 and 14 a, respectively, and the second dilators 14 and 14 a have a length greater than the length of the third dilators 16 and 16 a, respectively. This stepped arrangement permits the proximal ends of the first dilators 12 and 12 a to extend further out of the patient in the assembled and operational configurations to facilitate connection of the electrodes to the neural monitoring equipment and such that a surgeon may grasp and remove or otherwise manipulate the dilators.

It should be understood that the dilators described above may include a plurality of depth indicators located on the outer surface thereof.

A method of using the dilation systems 10 and 10 a will now be described for accessing a patient's spine. The technique may be particularly desirable for accessing the lumbar region of the spine via a lateral approach, although a similar or the same method may be used in other parts of the patient's body.

Using a stimulating probe and an electromyograph (EMG) (not shown) in a manner similar to that described in U.S. 2011/0208226 and U.S. Ser. No. 13/887,838, which is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference, the surgeon may map a safe zone, i.e., a zone generally free of any neural elements or nerves, on the tissue of interest (e.g., psoas muscle). For example, on the psoas muscle, the anterior third of the psoas muscle is generally considered a safe zone.

Once a safe zone is established, anatomical placement may be confirmed via intra-operative fluoroscopy. The surgeon inserts the stimulating probe through the psoas muscle toward the patient's spine. If the surgery is being performed on the intervertebral disc space, the distal end of the stimulating probe may be inserted into the annulus of the desired intervertebral disc space. The stimulating probe may be inserted via the most posterior portion of the safe zone.

The surgeon can insert or slide the first dilator 12, 12 a over the stimulating probe so that the first longitudinal axis is located to one side of the stimulating probe, away from a sensed neural element or nerve, through the psoas muscle and into a position proximate the patient's spine. The surgeon can then insert the second dilator 14, 14 a, if necessary, to further dilate the tissue proximate the outside surface of the first dilator 12, 12 a and in a desired direction. The surgeon can repeat this process as often as necessary. Finally, if desired, a retractor (not shown) can be inserted over the third dilator 16, 16 a to subsequently retract the tissue and to permit removal of the dilation system 10, 10 a and the stimulating probe.

Referring now to FIG. 14 , another embodiment of a dilation system 100 is illustrated. The dilation system 100 includes a plurality of sequential dilators 112, 114, and 116. The dilation system 100 may include more or less dilators such as, for example, one, two four, etc. The dilation system 100 is adapted to be used in combination with a monitoring K-wire or stimulating probe 118 known for transmitting an electrical pulse.

Referring now to FIGS. 15A, 16A-16D, 17, and 18 , the first dilator 112 is an elongated, tubular member having an outer surface 120, a proximal end 122, a distal end 124 and a bore 126 extending from the proximal end 122 to the distal end 124. The bore 126 is sized to receive the stimulating probe 118. The first dilator 112 may be provided with a second bore or channel 138 extending parallel to the bore 126 and the length of the first dilator 112 for receiving an electrode 140.

The first dilator 112 is further characterized as having a lower section 128, an upper section 130, and an intermediate section 132. The lower section 128 is sized and configured to be extended through the psoas muscle. By way of example, the lower section 128 may have a diameter in a range of from about 4 mm to about 10 mm. In one embodiment, the lower section 128 has a generally keyhole shaped cross section.

The upper section 130 of the first dilator 112 is provided with a first guide 134 and a second guide 136 which are configured to slidably and matingly engage with the second dilator 114 and the third dilator 116, respectively, in a manner to be discussed below. The first guide 134 is illustrated has having a dovetail configuration with a taper at a proximal end thereof to facilitate engagement with the second dilator 114. Similarly, the second guide 136 is illustrated as having a dovetail configuration with a taper at a proximal end thereof to facilitate engagement with the third dilator 116. In one embodiment, the first guide 134 and the second guide 136 extend radially outwardly in diametrically opposing directions.

It should be appreciated that the first guide 134 and the second guide 136 may be formed in a variety of shapes. For example, the first guide 134 and the second guide 136 may be formed as grooves configured to receive a dovetail tongue. Also, the first guide and the second guide may be formed so that the size of the first guide 134 is different from the size of the second guide 136 for reasons that will be described below.

The intermediate section of the first dilator 112 may be an open sided structure, and shaped similar to the lower section 128 (e.g., generally keyhole shaped cross section). As illustrated in FIG. 16D, the first dilator 112 may be constructed in multiple pieces. For example, the lower section 128, the upper section 130, and the intermediate section 132 may be formed as separate pieces which are adapted to be assembled with one another. It will also be understood that the first dilator 112 may be formed as a single piece.

With reference to FIGS. 15B, 19, 20A, and 20B, the second dilator 114 is configured to slide along the first dilator 112 (FIG. 15B) and be positioned to create a semi-circular cross section that assists with slitting muscle fibers when a combination of the first dilator 112 and the second dilator 114 are rotated about the stimulated probe 118. The second dilator 114 is generally characterized as being an elongated, open sided or C-shaped structure that has an outer surface 141, an inner surface 142, a proximal end 143, a distal end 144, and a bore 145 extending from the proximal end 143 to the distal end 144 for receiving an electrode, such as the electrode 140, in a manner to be described below.

The second dilator 114 is further characterized as having a lower section 146, an upper section 148, and an intermediate section 150. The inner surface 142 of the lower section 146 is sized and configured to be matingly received over a corresponding portion of the lower section 128 of the first dilator 112. The inner surface 142 of the upper section 148 of the second dilator 114 is configured to slidably and matingly engage with the first guide of the first dilator 112. To this end, the upper section 148 of the second dilator 114 has a groove 152 corresponding to the shape of the first guide 134. Again, it will be appreciated that the first guide 134 and the groove 152 may be formed in a variety of shapes and that the position of the first guide 134 and the groove may interchanged. To facilitate sliding of the second dilator 114 over the first dilator 112, the inner surface 142 of the intermediate section 150 of the second dilator 114 may be configured so that the inner surface 142 is in a non-contact relationship with the outer surface 120 of the first dilator 112.

The second dilator 114 has a first longitudinal edge 154 and a second longitudinal edge 156. The bore 145 may be formed proximate to the first longitudinal edge 154. The second longitudinal edge 156 may be angled to form a wedge with the inner surface 142 of the second dilator 114 to facilitate rotation of the first dilator 112 and the second dilator 114 relative to the muscle fiber.

With reference to FIGS. 15C, 21, 22A, 22B, the third dilator 116 is configured to slide along the first dilator 112 and be positioned to transform the semi-circular cross section of the combination of the first dilator 112 and the second dilator 114 to a circular cross section of a selected diameter, e.g. 16 mm-22 mm. The third dilator 116 is generally characterized as being an elongated, open sided or C-shaped structure that has an outer surface 160, an inner surface 162, a proximal end 164, a distal end 166 and a bore 168 extending from the proximal end 164 to the distal end 166 for receiving an electrode, such as the electrode 140, in a manner to be described below.

The third dilator 116 is further characterized as having a lower section 170, an upper section 172, and an intermediate section 174. The inner surface 162 of the lower section 172 is sized and configured to be matingly received over a corresponding portion of the lower section 128 of the first dilator 112. The inner surface 162 of the upper section 174 of the third dilator 116 is configured to slidably and matingly engage with the second guide 136 of the first dilator 112. To this end, the upper section 174 of the third dilator 116 has a groove 176 corresponding to the shape of the second guide 136. Again, it will be appreciated that the second guide 136 and the groove 176 may be formed in a variety of shapes and that the position of the second guide 136 and the groove 176 may be interchanged. To facilitate positioning of the third dilator 116 over the first dilator 112, the inner surface 162 of the intermediate section 176 of the third dilator 116 may be configured so that the inner surface 162 is in a non-contact relationship with the outer surface 120 of the first dilator 112.

The third dilator 116 has a first longitudinal edge 178 and a second longitudinal edge 180. The bore 168 may be formed proximate to the first longitudinal edge 178. The first longitudinal edge 178 and the second longitudinal edge 180 of the third dilator 116 are configured to mate with the second longitudinal edge 156 and the first longitudinal edge 154 of the second dilator 114, respectively. Because the first longitudinal edge 154 and the second longitudinal edge 156 of the second dilator 114 are angled to facilitate rotation within the psoas muscle, the first longitudinal edge 178 and the second longitudinal edge 180 of the third dilator 116 have an inverse shape to that of the first longitudinal edge 154 and the second longitudinal edge 156 of the second dilator 114 so as to mate with the first and second longitudinal edges 154 and 156 of the second dilator 114. To facilitate insertion of the second dilator 114 on the first dilator 112 prior to insertion of the third dilator 116, the first guide 134 and the second guide 136 may be sized differently from one another and the grooves 152 and 176 of the second and third dilators 114 and 116 may be sized to mate with the corresponding one of the first and second guides 134 and 136.

A method of using the dilation systems 100 will now be described for accessing a patient's spine. The technique may be particularly desirable for accessing the lumbar region of the spine via a lateral approach, although a similar or the same method may be used in other parts of the patient's body.

Using a stimulating probe 118 and an electromyograph (EMG) (not shown), a surgeon may map a safe zone, i.e., a zone generally free of any neural elements or nerves, on the tissue of interest (e.g., psoas muscle). For example, on the psoas muscle, the anterior third of the psoas muscle is generally considered a safe zone.

Once a safe zone is established, anatomical placement may be confirmed via intra-operative fluoroscopy. The surgeon inserts the stimulating probe 118 through the psoas muscle toward the patient's spine. If the surgery is being performed on the intervertebral disc space, the distal end of the stimulating probe 118 may be inserted into the annulus of the desired intervertebral disc space. The stimulating probe 118 may be inserted via the most posterior portion of the safe zone.

The surgeon can insert or slide the first dilator 112 over the stimulating probe 118, through the psoas muscle, and into a position proximate the patient's spine. The surgeon can insert a stimulating probe 140 into the bore 138 so that a surgeon can stimulate the first dilator 112 while the first dilator 112 is being inserted into position. The surgeon can then insert the second dilator 114 on the first dilator 112 by inserting the second dilator 114 laterally into to engagement with the first dilator 112 with the upper section of the second dilator 114 positioned above the first guide 134 of the first dilator 112 (FIG. 15B).

The second dilator 114 may then be slid downwardly along the first dilator 112 in such a way that the groove 152 of the second dilator 114 is received over the first guide 134 of the first dilator 112 so as to axially guide the second dilator 114 through the psoas muscle and further dilate the tissue. Prior to positioning the second dilator 114, the surgeon can remove the electrode 140 from the first dilator 112 and insert the electrode 140 into the bore 143 of the second dilator 114 to stimulate the second dilator 114 while the second dilator 114 is being inserted into position. The surgeon can repeat this process using the third dilator 116. Finally, if desired, a retractor can be inserted over the second dilator 114 and the third dilator 116 to subsequently retract the tissue and to permit removal of the dilation system 100 and the stimulating probe 118 and the electrode 140.

Referring now to FIGS. 23A-23C, another embodiment of a dilation system 200 is illustrated. The dilation system 200 includes a pair of dilators 202 and 204. The dilation system 200 may include more or less dilators such as, for example, one, three four, etc. The dilation system 200 is adapted to be used in combination with a monitoring K-wire or stimulating probe (not shown) known for transmitting an electrical pulse.

Referring now to FIG. 23A, the first dilator 112 is an elongated member having an outer surface 206, a proximal end 208, a distal end 210, and a bore 212 extending from the proximal end 208 to the distal end 210. The bore 212 is sized to receive a K-wire or stimulating probe, such as the stimulating probe 118 illustrated in FIG. 14 . The first dilator 202 can be manufactured such that the K-wire can be accommodated via a continuous thru-bore or an open slot located closer to the outer surface of the first dilator 202.

The first dilator 202 is used to create the initial access corridor. The distal end 210 is tapered to facilitate insertion into tissue, and the distal end 212 is stimulatable via an exposed electrode 214. The general shape of the first dilator 202 is atraumatic. A connector 216 is provided along one side of the first dilator 202. The connector 216 is illustrated as being a dovetail groove.

In use, the first dilator 202 is inserted over the K-wire or stimulating probe with the connector 216 positioned in an anterior direction to monitor the proximity of nerves.

The second dilator 204 is used to further dilate tissue and can be advanced into position directly anterior to the first dilator 202. The second dilator 204 is an elongated member having an outer surface 220, a proximal end 222, and a distal end 224. Like the first dilator 202, the second dilator 204 may be manufactured with a stimulatable electrode. The shape of the second dilator 204 is atraumatic as it passes through tissue. The second dilator 204 is configured to connect to and slide along the length of the first dilator 202. To this end, the second dilator 204 has a connector 226.

The connector 226 of the second dilator 204 is configured for sliding and mating engagement with the connector 216 of the first dilator 202. In one embodiment, the connector 226 is a dovetail tongue that allows for the second dilator 204 to slide along the length of the first dilator 202 while maintaining attachment.

The dilation system 200 further includes a retractor blade assembly 230 (FIG. 23C) which is shown to include three blades 232 a, 232 b, and 232 c. The contour of the blades 232 a, 232 b, and 232 c, when assembled, closely matches the outer profile of a combination of the first dilator 202 and the second dilator 204. The posterior retractor blade 232 a may have an embedded electrode and accompanying wiring to enable monitoring of nerves. The electrode and wiring can be embedded into the dilator blades and retractor blades or added afterwards by a sticky probe or conductive epoxy ink.

The dilators and the retractor blades can be machined, molded, or extruded and machined from materials such as stainless steel, anodized aluminum, PEEK, carbon fiber composite, or any biocompatible material suitable to maintain the shape and function of the components.

FIGS. 24-28 illustrate another embodiment of a dilation system 300 constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein. The dilation system 300 is used to create an initial corridor which may be expanded to a desired diameter, e.g., 16-22 mm, without inserting any additional instruments. In addition, the dilation system 300 is adapted to be used with a k-wire or stimulating probe, such as the stimulating probe 118 illustrated in FIG. 14 . The dilation system 300 includes a base 302, a first blade 304, a second blade 306, and an actuating mechanism 308 operably associated with the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 so as to cause the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 to move from a closed condition (FIG. 24A) wherein the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 are positioned adjacent one another to permit insertion through selected tissue to an expanded condition (FIG. 24B) wherein the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 are spread apart relative to one another to expand the tissue.

The first blade 304 has a proximal end 310 and a distal end 312. The first blade 304 extends from the base 302 so that the distal end 312 of the first blade 304 extends away from the base 302 in such a way that the distal end 312 is deflectable relative to the proximal end 310. Similarly, the second blade 306 has a proximal end 314 and a distal end 316. The second blade 306 extends from the base 302 so that the distal end 316 of the second blade 306 extends away from the base 302 in such a way that the distal end 316 is deflectable relative to the proximal end 314. Each of the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 has a generally arcuate cross section and the distal ends 312 and 316 may be tapered to facilitate insertion into a patient. Each of the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 may be provided with a bore or channel (not shown) extending the length of the first dilator 112 for receiving an electrode (not shown) to aid in stimulating adjacent tissues.

The actuating mechanism 308 includes a linkage 320, a drive rod 322, and a drive member 324. In one embodiment, the linkage 320 includes a pair of cross links 326. Each cross link 326 is identical in construction and has a body 328 with a pin 330 pivotally connectable to the distal ends 312 and 316 of the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 via a groove 331 formed in the distal ends 312 and 316 of the first blade 304 and the second blade 306. Each cross link 326 further includes a pin 332 and hole 334 with the pin 332 being received through the hole 334 of the other cross link 326 and the hole 334 receiving the pin 332 of the other cross link 326. The body 328 is provided with a longitudinal groove 336 for receiving a stimulating probe when the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 are in the closed condition.

The drive rod 322 has a proximal end 338 and a distal end 340, and the drive rod 322 is positioned between the first blade 304 and the second blade 306. The distal end 340 of the drive rod 322 is provided with pair of holes 342 for pivotally receiving the pins 332 of the cross links 326 such that axial movement of the drive rod 322 moves the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 from the closed condition to the expanded condition.

The drive member 324 is rotatably connected to the base 302, and the proximal end 338 of the drive rod 322 is threadingly connected to the drive member 324 in such a way that rotational movement of the drive member 324 causes axial movement to the drive rod 322.

The drive member 324 and the drive rod 322 have a central bore 344 sized to receive a stimulating probe. Further, the distal end 312 of the first blade 304 may have a first notch 346, and the distal end 316 of the second blade 306 may have a second notch 348. The first notch 346 and the second notch 348 are aligned to cooperate to form an opening 350 (FIG. 24A) sized to receive the stimulating probe when the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 are in the closed condition.

Referring to FIGS. 28A and 28B, the dilation system 300 may further include an expandable sheath 352 positioned about at least the distal ends of the first blade 304 and the second blade 306 to cover the spaces between the first blade 304 and the second blade 306. The sheath 352 can be made of any type of expandable material, such as a mesh, fabric, polymer, or elastomeric polymer.

Referring now to FIGS. 29-33 , another embodiment of a dilation system 400 is illustrated. The dilation system 400 is used to create an initial corridor which may be expanded to a desired diameter, e.g., 16-22 mm, without inserting any additional instruments. In addition, the dilation system 400 is adapted to be used with a k-wire or stimulating probe, such as the stimulating probe 401. The dilation system 400 includes a base 402, a first blade 404, a second blade 406, and an actuating mechanism 408 operably associated with the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 so as to cause the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 to move from a closed condition (FIG. 29 ) wherein the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 are positioned adjacent one another a distance to permit insertion through selected tissue to an expanded condition (FIGS. 30 and 31 ) wherein the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 are spread apart relative to one another a selected distance to expand the tissue.

The first blade 404 has a proximal end 410 and a distal end 412. The first blade 404 extends from the base 402 so that the distal end 412 of the first blade 404 extends away from the base 402 in such a way that the distal end 412 is deflectable relative to the proximal end 410. Similarly, the second blade 406 has a proximal end 414 and a distal end 416. The second blade 406 extends from the base 402 so that the distal end 416 of the second blade 406 extends away from the base 402 in such a way that the distal end 416 is deflectable relative to the proximal end 414. Each of the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 has a generally arcuate cross section and the distal ends 412 and 416 may be tapered to facilitate insertion into a patient. Each of the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 may be provided with a bore or channel (not shown) extending the length thereof for receiving an electrode (not shown) to aid in stimulating adjacent tissues.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 32 and 33 , the actuating mechanism 408 includes a drive rod 418, an expander member 420, a guide 422, and a second expander member 423 (FIG. 33 ). The drive rod 418 has a proximal end 424 and a distal end 426. The drive rod 418 extends between the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 and is rotatably connected to the base 402 in such a way that the drive rod 418 is rotatable through an angle of at least about 90 degrees. In one embodiment, the base 402 is provided with a pair of diametrically opposed slots 428 (only one slot 428 being visible), and the guide rod 418 is provided with a pair of diametrically opposed pins 430 extending radially therefrom and slidably received in the slots 428. The drive rod 418 has a central bore 431 sized to receive the stimulating probe 401.

The expander member 420 extends from the drive rod 418 in such a way that rotational movement of the drive rod 418 moves the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 from the closed condition to the expanded condition. As best illustrated in FIG. 32 , the expander member 420 may include a pair of flanges or protrusions 432 that are sized and shaped to contact the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 and move the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 to the expanded condition upon rotation of the drive rod 418. The guide member 422 may extend from the drive rod 418 in a substantially perpendicular relationship of the expander member 420 for guiding the second expander member 423 in a manner to be discussed below.

The second expander member 423 is slidably positionable over the drive rod 418 and between the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 so as to extend between the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 to fill the gap between the longitudinal edges of the first blade 404 and the longitudinal edges of the second blade 406. The second expander 423 may include a base 434, a first blade 436 extending from the base 434, and a second blade 438 extending from the base 434 in a spaced apart, parallel relationship to the first blade 436 so that the first blade 436 and the second blade 438 are slidably positionable over the expander member 420 when the expander member 420 is rotated to the expanded condition. The first blade 436 and the second blade 438 may be provided with a slot 440 extending along at least a portion an inner surface thereof for slidingly receiving a portion of the guide member 422.

Each of the first blade 436 and the second blade 438 has a generally arcuate cross section and the distal ends may be provided with a raised area 442 which is positionable substantially flush with the outer surfaces of the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 in the expanded condition so that the first blade 436 and the second blade 438 cooperate with the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 to form a circular cross section of a selected diameter, e.g., 16 mm-22 mm.

As an alternative to use of the second expander 423 to fill the gaps between the first blade 404 and the second blade 406, it will be appreciated that the dilation system 400 may further include an expandable sheath positioned about at least the distal ends of the first blade 404 and the second blade 406 to cover the spaces between the first blade 404 and the second blade 406. As described above, the sheath can be made of any type of expandable material, such as a mesh, fabric, polymer, or elastomeric polymer.

FIGS. 34 and 35 illustrate another embodiment of a dilation system 500 constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein. The dilation system 500 is used to create an initial corridor which may be expanded to a desired diameter, e.g., 16-22 mm, without inserting any additional instruments. In addition, the dilation system 500 is adapted to be used with a k-wire or stimulating probe, such as a stimulating probe 501. The dilation system 500 includes a base 502, a first blade 504, a second blade 506, and an actuating mechanism 508 operably associated with the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 so as to cause the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 to move from a closed condition wherein the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 are positioned adjacent one another a distance to permit insertion through selected tissue to an expanded condition (FIGS. 34 and 35 ) wherein the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 are spread apart relative to one another a selected distance to expand the tissue.

The first blade 504 has a proximal end 510 and a distal end 512. The first blade 504 extends from the base 502 so that the distal end 512 of the first blade 504 extends away from the base 502 in such a way that the distal end 512 is deflectable relative to the proximal end 510. Similarly, the second blade 506 has a proximal end 514 and a distal end 516. The second blade 506 extends from the base 502 so that the distal end 516 of the second blade 506 extends away from the base 502 in such a way that the distal end 516 is deflectable relative to the proximal end 514. Each of the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 has a generally arcuate cross section and the distal ends 512 and 516 may be tapered to facilitate insertion into a patient. Each of the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 may be provided with a bore or channel (not shown) extending the length thereof for receiving an electrode (not shown) to aid in stimulating adjacent tissues.

The actuating mechanism 508 includes a drive rod 518 having a proximal end and a distal end. The drive rod is positioned between the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 and configured in such a way that axial movement of the drive rod 518 moves the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 from the closed condition to the expanded condition. The drive rod 518 may have a wedge shape so that axial movement of the drive rod 518 wedge will drive the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 in a radial direction to larger or smaller diameters.

The drive rod 518 may be moved in a variety of different ways. For example, the drive rod 518 may be axially moved manually by sliding the drive rod 518 between the first blade 504 and the second blade 506. Also, the drive rod 518 may be moved in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the dilation system 200 where the drive rod 518 may be moved with an internally threaded assembly, by way of example.

The expansion of the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 will leave gaps as they go to the large circumferences so these gaps should be covered to effectively dilate the tissue. To this end, the dilation system 500 may include an expandable sheath 520 (FIG. 35 ) positioned about at least the distal ends of the first blade 504 and the second blade 506 to cover the spaces between the first blade 504 and the second blade 506. The sheath 520 may be laterally supported by a plurality of support member 522 (only one support member 522 being visible in FIG. 35 ). As described above, the sheath 520 can be made of any type of expandable material, such as a mesh, fabric, polymer, or elastomeric polymer. The sheath 520 may alternatively be in the form of a plurality of metal slotted tubes connected to the blades 504 and 506. The slotted tubes must be made out of an elastic material such as nitinol to accommodate the bending to a larger diameter. The tubes are initially nested within each other. As the blades are driven radially outward they interact with each other such that the diameters of tubing will increase. The sliding and expanding action will maintain an enclosed cylinder with some discontinuities, but no gaps. Alternatively, the drive rod 518 may be configured to file in the gaps.

Referring now to FIGS. 36-38 , another embodiment of a dilation system 600 is illustrated. The dilation system 600 includes a first dilator 601, an expandable dilator 602, and a plurality of expansion dilators 604 positionable between the first dilator 601 and the expandable dilator 602 to enlarge the surgical corridor and create an enlarged working space. The first dilator 601 is a generally tubular member with a bore 606 for receiving a K-wire or stimulating probe, such as the stimulating probe 118 of FIG. 14 .

The expandable dilator 602 includes an expandable sheath 608 and a plurality of support members 610 extending longitudinally along an inner surface of the sheath 608 in a spaced apart relationship to provide longitudinal support to the sheath 608 while allowing for the sheath 608 to expand radially. The sheath 608 may be constructed of any suitable elastomeric material. The support members 610 are sized to extend along the length of the sheath 608 may be connected to sheath 602 in any suitable manner, such as use of an adhesive, weaving the support arms in the sheath 602, or embedding the support members 610 in the sheath 608, for example. While the expandable dilator 602 is shown as having four support members 608, it will be appreciated that the expandable dilator 602 may expand with the use of at least three support members 610. However, the sheath 608 will created a rounder corridor the more support members 610 that are utilized.

In use, the first dilator 601 is inserted through tissue up to a disc annulus while monitoring neural structures. A K-wire may be inserted through the bore 606 of the first dilator 601 to dock the first dilator 601 to a disc annulus. The expandable dilator 602 is then inserted over the first dilator 601 as shown in FIGS. 36A and 36B. A second dilator 604 a (FIGS. 37A and 37B) may then be inserted between first dilator 601 and the expandable dilator 602, thereby expanding the sheath 608. As shown in FIGS. 38A and 38C, a third dilator 604 b may be inserted between the second dilator 604 a and the expandable dilator 602, thereby further expanding the sheath 608. A retractor (not shown) may be inserted about the sheath 608, and the dilation system 600 and the K-wire removed.

As shown, the support members 610 and the dilators 601, 604 a and 604 b may be provided with corresponding tongues 612 and grooves 614 for aligning the dilators to one another during expansion. The tongue and groove construction also allows the sheath 608 to expand uniformly. The dilation system 600 has an advantage in that only two dilators are inserted that pass through tissue which minimizes tissue trauma as the remaining dilators are used to expand the dilation system radially without any further insertion forces. This is due to the sheath remaining in contact with tissue for the remainder of the expansion.

Electrodes, such as electrode 616, may be embedded in or on the first dilator 601 and the sheath 608 to allow for surrounding neural tissue to be identified, monitored, and assessed based on distance and pathology.

Referring now to FIGS. 39-41 , another embodiment of a dilation system 700 is illustrated. The dilation system 700 is used to create an initial corridor which may be expanded to a desired diameter, e.g., 16-22 mm, without inserting any additional instruments. In addition, the dilation system 700 is adapted to be used with a k-wire or stimulating probe, such as the stimulating probe 701 (FIGS. 41A-41D). The dilation system 700 includes a wedge assembly 702 and an actuating assembly 708.

The wedge assembly 702 includes a base 703, a first blade 704, a second blade 706. The actuating mechanism 708 is operably associated with the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 so as to cause the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 to move from a closed condition (FIGS. 41A and 41B) wherein the distal ends of the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 are positioned adjacent one another to form a generally wedge shaped structure to facilitate insertion through selected tissue to an expanded condition (FIG. 41D) wherein the distal ends of the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 are spread apart relative to one another a selected distance to expand the tissue.

The base 703 serves to connect the first blade 704 to the second blade 706. The base 703 may include an elongated tubular portion 705 (best shown in FIG. 41D) for supporting and guiding the probe 701. As shown in FIG. 39 , in one embodiment the wedge assembly 702 may be formed from two blade sections 707 a and 707 b to facilitate assembly with the actuating assembly 708. The blade sections 707 a and 707 b may be secured to one another at the base 703 in a suitable manner, such as with an adhesive or by welding, with the blades 704 and 706 straddling the actuating assembly 708.

The first blade 704 has a proximal end 710 and a distal end 712. The first blade 704 extends from the base 702 so that the distal end 712 of the first blade 704 extends away from the base 702 in such a way that the distal end 712 is deflectable relative to the proximal end 710. Similarly, the second blade 706 has a proximal end 714 and a distal end 716. The second blade 706 extends from the base 702 so that the distal end 716 of the second blade 706 extends away from the base 702 in such a way that the distal end 716 is deflectable relative to the proximal end 714. Each of the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 has a generally arcuate cross section and the distal ends 712 and 716 may be tapered to facilitate insertion into a patient. To assist in insertion of the wedge assembly 702 to be described below, each of the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 may be provided with a finger indention 717 near the proximal ends thereof.

Each of the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 may be provided with a channel 718 (FIG. 39 ) on an inner surface thereof extending to the distal end sized to receive the stimulating probe 701 when the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 are in the closed condition. At least one of the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 may also be provided with a longitudinal slot or channel 720 (FIG. 39 ) along a portion of an outer surface thereof for receiving a second stimulating probe 722 (FIG. 41B) when the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 are in the closed condition. The slot 720 may include one or more tabs 721 (FIG. 41A) extending inwardly into the slot 722 for gripping the probe 722 when the probe 720 is positioned in the slot 720.

The actuating mechanism 708 includes a drive member 730 positioned between the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 and configured in such a way that axial movement of the drive member 730 moves the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 from the closed condition to the expanded condition and causes the drive member 730 to extend between the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 to fill the gap between the longitudinal edges of the first blade 704 and the longitudinal edges of the second blade 706.

The drive member 730 has a proximal base 732, a distal base 734, a first blade 736 extending between the proximal base 732 and the distal base 734, a second blade 738 extending between the proximal base 732 and the distal base 734 in a spaced apart, parallel relationship to the first blade 736 so that the first blade 736 and the second blade 738 are slidably positionable between the first blade 704 and the second blade 706. To assist in insertion of the drive member 730 in a manner to be described below, each of the first blade 736 and the second blade 738 may be provided with a finger indention 739 near the proximal ends thereof.

The longitudinal edges of the first blade 736 and the second blade 738 are configured to mate with the longitudinal edges of the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 so that the outer surfaces of the first blade 736 and the second blade 738 are substantially flush with the outer surfaces of the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 in the expanded condition (FIG. 41D). As a result, the wedge assembly 702 and the drive member 730 cooperate to form a circular cross section of a selected diameter, e.g., 16-22 mm, about which a retractor assembly (not shown) may be disposed.

The proximal base 732 of the drive member 730 serves to connect the proximal ends of the first blade 736 and the second blade 738 to one another. In one embodiment, the proximal base 732 is generally U-shape to provide an open side which facilitates insertion of the probe 722 into the slot 720. The proximal base 732 is configured to receive the tubular portion 705 of the base 703 and to contact the proximal end of one of the first and second blades 704 and 706 in way that the contact between the proximal base 730 and wedge assembly 702 serve to limit the movement of the actuating assembly 708 relative to the wedge assembly 702.

Referring to FIGS. 40A and 40B, the distal base 734 is configured to slidingly mate with the inner surface of the first and second blades 704 and 706 to cause the first and second blades 704 and 706 to move from the closed condition to the expanded condition when the distal base 734 is caused to be axially moved from the proximal ends of the first and second blades 704 and 706 to the distal ends of the first and second blades 704 and 706. The distal base 734 is provided with an open sided hole 740 for supporting and guiding the probe 701.

In use, the probe 701 is initially positioned through the psoas to the designated disc space to define a central location for subsequent instrumentation. Following positioning of the probe 701, the dilator system 700 is inserted over the probe 701 with the dilator system 700 in the closed position (FIG. 41A) by pushing the wedge assembly 702 axially along the probe 701. With the wedge assembly 702 in the closed condition, the psoas is enlarged to an approximate oval shape. As illustrated in FIG. 41B, the slot 720 in the outer surface of one of the first and second blades 704 and 706 allows the second probe 722 to be used during the insertion process. The probe 722 can be manipulated, and the dilator system 700 rotated to assist with neural monitoring.

After the wedge assembly 702 has been positioned up to the disc space, the drive member 730 is pushed axially toward the distal ends of the first and second blades 704 and 706 in manner to move the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 from the closed condition to the expanded condition (FIG. 41D) and cause the drive member 730 to extend between the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 to fill the gap between the longitudinal edges of the first blade 704 and the longitudinal edges of the second blade 706 (FIG. 41D). When the drive member 730 is moved to the disc space, the outer surfaces of the first blade 736 and the second blade 738 are substantially flush with the outer surfaces of the first blade 704 and the second blade 706 in the expanded condition (FIG. 41D) and thereby cooperate to form a circular cross section of a selected diameter about which a retractor assembly (not shown) may be disposed.

From the above description, it is clear that the inventive concepts disclosed and claimed herein are well adapted to carry out the objects and to attain the advantages mentioned herein, as well as those inherent in the invention. While exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts have been described for purposes of this disclosure, it will be understood that numerous changes may be made which will readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and which are accomplished within the spirit of the inventive concepts disclosed and claimed herein. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of forming an access opening through a psoas muscle to a patient's spine, comprising the steps of: laterally inserting a stimulating probe into the psoas muscle; transmitting an electrical pulse via an electromyograph (EMG) into the stimulating probe to locate a safe zone in the psoas muscle; laterally inserting the stimulating probe through the psoas muscle so a probe tip is proximate the patients spine; inserting a wedge assembly through the psoas muscle and toward the patients spine guided by sliding engagement of the stimulating probe; and expanding the wedge assembly from a dosed condition to an expanded condition, wherein the wedge assembly comprises at least a first blade and a second blade with each of the first blade and the second blade having a proximal end, a distal end, and an arcuate outer surface, wherein when the wedge assembly is in the closed condition, the arcuate outer surface of the first blade and the arcuate outer surface of the second blade are in a tapering relationship relative one another from the proximal end of the first blade and the second blade to the distal end of the first blade and the second blade, and wherein the step of expanding the wedge assembly further comprises the step of moving the distal ends of the first blade and the second blade in a radially outward direction relative to one another so the first blade and the second blade are in a substantially parallel relationship relative to one another.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: inserting a second stimulating probe along the outer surface of the wedge assembly; and transmitting an electrical pulse via the EMG into the second stimulating probe to locate a safe zone in the psoas muscle.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein in the step of moving the distal end of the blades of the wedge assembly further includes axially moving a drive member positioned between the first blade and the second blade in a way that moves the first blade and the second blade from the closed condition to the expanded condition.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the drive member includes a plurality of parallel blades, and wherein the step of moving the distal end of the blades of the wedge assembly further comprises positioning the blades of the drive member between the blades of the wedge assembly to fill a space between the blades of the wedge assembly as the blades of the wedge assembly are moved from the closed condition to the expanded condition.
 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising positioning an expandable sheath about at least the distal ends of the first blade and the second blade.
 6. A method of forming an access opening through a psoas muscle to a patient's spine, comprising the steps of: laterally inserting a stimulating probe into the psoas muscle; transmitting an electrical pulse via an electromyograph (EMG) into the stimulating probe to locate a safe zone in the psoas muscle; laterally inserting the stimulating probe through the psoas muscle so a probe tip is proximate the patients spine; inserting a wedge assembly through the psoas muscle and toward the patient's spine guided by sliding engagement of the stimulating probe; and expanding the wedge assembly from a closed condition to an expanded condition, wherein the wedge assembly comprises at least a first blade and a second blade with each of the first blade and the second blade having a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the step of expanding the wedge assembly further comprises the step of moving the distal ends of the first blade and the second blade in a radially outward direction relative to one another so the first blade and the second blade are in a substantially parallel relationship relative to one another, wherein each of the first blade and the second blade has an arcuate outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein in the step of expanding the wedge member from the closed condition to the expanded condition, the arcuate outer surfaces of the blades are in a tapering relationship relative one another from the proximal end of the first blade and the second blade to the distal end of the first blade and the second blade so the arcuate outer surfaces of the first blade and the second blade cooperate with one another to form an oblong transverse profile in the closed condition, and the distal ends of the first blade and the second blade are spread apart relative to the position of the distal ends of the first blade and the second blade when in the closed condition so the arcuate outer surfaces of the first blade and the second blade cooperate with one another to form a substantially circular transverse profile in the expanded condition.
 7. A method of forming an access opening through a psoas muscle to a patient's spine, comprising the steps of: laterally inserting a stimulating probe into the psoas muscle; transmitting an electrical pulse via an electromyograph (EMG) into the stimulating probe to locate a safe zone in the psoas muscle; laterally inserting the stimulating probe through the psoas muscle so a probe tip is proximate the patients spine; inserting a wedge assembly through the psoas muscle and toward the patient's spine guided by sliding engagement of the stimulating probe; and expanding the wedge assembly from a dosed condition to an expanded condition, wherein the wedge assembly comprises at least a first blade and a second blade with each of the first blade and the second blade having a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the step of expanding the wedge assembly further comprises the step of moving the distal ends of the first blade and the second blade in a radially outward direction relative to one another so the first blade and the second blade are in a substantially parallel relationship relative to one another, wherein in the step of moving the distal end of the blades of the wedge assembly further includes axially moving a drive member positioned between the first blade and the second blade in a way that moves the first blade and the second blade from the closed condition to the expanded condition, wherein the drive member includes a plurality of parallel blades, and wherein the step of moving the distal end of the blades of the wedge assembly further comprises positioning the blades of the drive member between the blades of the wedge assembly to fill a space between the blades of the wedge assembly as the blades of the wedge assembly are moved from the closed condition to the expanded condition, wherein the drive member has a proximal base, a distal base, a first blade extending between the proximal base and the distal base and having an outer surface, a second blade extending between the proximal base and the distal base in a spaced apart, parallel relationship to the first blade and having an outer surface, and wherein in the step of positioning the first blade and the second blade of the drive member further comprises slidably positioning the first blade and the second blade of the drive member between the first blade and the second blade of the wedge assembly.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the first blade of the drive member has longitudinal edges extending from the proximal base to the distal base, wherein the second blade of the drive member has longitudinal edges extending from the proximal base to the distal base, wherein the first blade of the wedge assembly has longitudinal edges, wherein the second blade of the wedge assembly has longitudinal edges, and wherein in the step of positioning the blades of the drive member further comprises mating the longitudinal edges of the first blade and the second blade of the drive member with the longitudinal edges of the first blade and the second blade of the wedge assembly so the outer surfaces of the first blade and the second blade of the drive member are flush with the arcuate outer surfaces of the first blade and the second blade of the wedge assembly in the expanded condition.
 9. The method of claim 7, wherein the distal base of the drive member is slidingly mated with the inner surfaces of the first blade and the second blade of the wedge assembly, and wherein in the step of positioning the the first blade and the second blade of the drive member further comprises axially moving the distal base from the proximal ends of the first blade and the second blade of the wedge assembly to the the distal ends of the first blade and the second blade of the wedge assembly to cause the first blade and the second blade of the wedge assembly to move from the closed condition to the expanded condition. 